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Rider Skills

New to shifting gears? No worries rider, we’ve got you covered:

AUTOMATIC CLUTCH:

Automatic transmissions function just like they sound - ‘automatically’. Machines with this type of transmission will shift gears when the machine accelerates or slows down, without any operator involvement required.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC CLUTCH:

The driver must manually shift the gears with a semi-auto transmission. However, although the driver must manually shift gears, there’s no clutch to apply. Instead, the gears shift when the driver releases the throttle and moves the gearshift into a higher or lower gear. Depending on the type and model of OHV, the gearshift will be on the handlebar or next to the driver’s left foot.

MANUAL CLUTCH:

Just like a car, with a manual transmission or ‘stick shift’, the operator must release the throttle and disengage the clutch in order to switch gears. Once the machine is in the right gear, the operator can slowly release the clutch and then apply throttle. This type takes a little more work.

GEAR SHIFT GUIDELINES:

Release the throttle before shifting gears to prevent the front wheels from lifting off the ground when you shift.

Listen to your engine and get to know it’s warning sounds – the engine will literally ‘warn you’ when it’s time to shift gears!

Get to know your ‘friction zone’ when shifting gears, for smoother shifting and to prevent stalling – this is the point when your engine is ready to shift gears.

Always take a good look behind your machine before switching into reverse (if equipped with a reverse gear) to back up the machine.

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LET'S WORK TOGETHER

Go boldly, tell your story. Campfire is building a collective of ambassadors who share a passion for the wild. If you’re an influencer, publisher or sport expert drop us a line. Let’s hook up and inspire others.